A GALAXY of stars from the entertainment world are set to attend Oxford Playhouse’s 80th anniversary celebration in October.

The celebrity line up is due to include David Tennant, Gugu Mbatha-Raw and Jeremy Irons, who will perform in a revue covering the last 80 years and the story of the venue itself – from its pre-Second World War origins to the present day.

Many of the stars – who also include Sinéad Cusack, Jane Asher, Christopher Biggins, Katy Brand, Patricia Hodge and Freddie Jones – have previously performed at the Beaumont Street venue, which turns 80 on Sunday, October 21.

All proceeds from the black tie occasion, featuring singing, dancing, acting and comedy, will go to the Playhouse Trust.

Playhouse chief executive and director Louise Chantal said: “Under the able direction of film producer Victor Glynn, the evening will include iconic comedy scenes, more than enough music and a few too many ‘reinterpretations’ of the most famous productions to have graced the playhouse stage.”

Director Mr Glynn said the show already had a 'brilliant' group of performers lined up and said he hoped to announce even more star names nearer the time.

He added: "The Playhouse has hosted some extraordinary events over its 80-year history and I feel sure this is going to rank among the most memorable.”

An after-party, hosted by the Macdonald Randolph hotel, will take place following the two hour gala.

Tickets – which cost £90, or £180 with after-party entry and unlimited champagne – can be booked at oxfordplayhouse.com or by calling 01865 305 305.

The theatre is marking its 80th year with a bumper season of shows and events, headlined by four co-productions of major national tours and free tickets for anyone born in 1938.

Last month Michael Palin discussed his memories of the venue, before Oxford-born Ms Mbatha-Raw declared she was ‘honoured’ and ‘privileged’ to join Mr Palin as a theatre patron.

The theatre are collecting memories about the Playhouse from audience members, who are asked to send their anecdotes to OP80@oxfordplayhouse.com